'We have good memories of Pavel Srnicek'

Arsene Wenger has paid tribute to Pavel Srnicek after the former Newcastle United goalkeeper passed away on Tuesday.

Srnicek was a fan favourite at St James’ Park, where he played between 1991 and 1998, and Wenger expressed his sadness at losing such a popular character in the game.

“He played against us and it’s very sad news,” the manager said. “I heard one week ago that he was out for a jog and was found 20 minutes later. It’s very, very sad news.

“I’m very sad because he was only 47 years old, was still involved in football as a goalkeeping coach, so I express my condolences to his family. We have good memories of Pavel here in England because he played in the Premier League.”

Srnicek’s former club are currently 18th in the Premier League, but Wenger believes Newcastle carry a lot of threat ahead of Saturday’s fixture at Emirates Stadium.

“They had a difficult start and they lacked a little bit of confidence,” he said. “That always shows at home more than away from home. Away from home they have had quite good results and performances.

“If you look at their squad, they have good players in all areas. Up front they have Cisse, Mitrovic, Perez. In the middle of the park they have players like Sissoko and Wijnaldum who can make a difference as well, so they are a dangerous team to play at home.”